Ciryl Gane's Big Win Over Alex Pereira Stained By Video Proof Of Illegal Strikes

InnovationGamingCiryl Gane's Big Win Over Alex Pereira Stained By Video Proof Of Illegal StrikesByBrian Mazique,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Brian Mazique has covered combat sports and video games since 2011.Follow AuthorJun 15, 2026, 06:02pm EDTJun 15, 2026, 06:03pm EDTSummaryCiryl Gane claimed the interim heavyweight title with a second-round TKO victory over Alex Pereira at UFC Freedom 250 in Washington, D.C. The win, however, is overshadowed by controversy, as Gane delivered up to 11 illegal blows to the back of Pereira's head during the finishing sequence. Referee Herb Dean faces criticism for not intervening or warning Gane about the prohibited strikes. While Gane legitimately dropped Pereira with a jab, the illegal shots likely disoriented him further, potentially impacting his ability to recover. This marks Gane's second consecutive fight with post-fight controversy. Despite the debate, many felt Gane was headed for victory regardless. Gane is now expected to face Tom Aspinall for the undisputed title, while Pereira's three-division bid was denied.Show More WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 14: Ciryl Gane of France strikes Alex Pereira of Brazil in the UFC interim heavyweight championship fight during the UFC Freedom 250 event on the South Lawn at the White House on June 14, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)Zuffa LLCCiryl Gane fought beautifully en route to his second-round TKO win over Alex Pereira on Sunday night in Washington, D.C. at the White House. However, while Gane legitimately dropped Pereira with a power jab, the subsequent finish came after as many as 11 illegal blows to the back of the Brazilian's head.I recognized this in real time as I watched the fight and it drew an audible response from me in my office. Hours after the explosive co-main event, Home of Fight took to X to call out Gane's controversial finish with video proof.Key Facts At A GlanceRes...